Chandigarh: The southwest monsoon continues to influence weather conditions across Punjab and Chandigarh, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting another round of rainfall over the coming days. While rain activity remained scattered on Saturday, weather officials expect precipitation to become more widespread from Sunday onwards.
Cloudy skies prevailed across much of Punjab, though significant rainfall was largely confined to Ludhiana, where heavy showers brought temporary relief from sultry weather. Most other districts witnessed humid conditions despite overcast skies.
According to the Meteorological Centre in Chandigarh, a rain and thunderstorm alert has been issued for several districts, including Amritsar, Gurdaspur, Pathankot, Hoshiarpur, Jalandhar, Kapurthala, Ludhiana, Nawanshahr, Rupnagar, Fatehgarh Sahib, Mohali and Patiala. Weather experts have also cautioned about lightning and gusty winds during intense spells of rain.
Temperatures Ease Slightly
The recent cloud cover has resulted in a marginal decline in daytime temperatures across the state. Although the reduction has been modest, weather officials say conditions are expected to become more comfortable as rainfall increases over the next few days.
Rainfall Still Below Seasonal Average
Despite the arrival of the monsoon, Punjab continues to face a rainfall shortfall. Data released by the weather department indicates that precipitation recorded during the last 24 hours remained well below the seasonal average, with only a few districts receiving measurable rainfall.
Officials noted that Ludhiana received the highest rainfall during this period, while isolated light showers were reported from parts of Hoshiarpur, Rupnagar and Bathinda. Several districts recorded dry weather.
Weather Likely to Improve for Agriculture
Meteorologists believe the upcoming spell of rain will be beneficial for the ongoing agricultural season, particularly in districts located near the Himachal Pradesh border and northern parts of Haryana. The expected showers are likely to improve soil moisture and support paddy cultivation.
Rain Forecast for Coming Days
The IMD has predicted intermittent light to moderate rainfall across a large part of Punjab from July 6 to July 8. Districts in the central, northern and southern regions are expected to witness scattered showers accompanied by thunderstorms at isolated places.
Residents have been advised to remain cautious during periods of lightning and strong winds and to follow weather advisories issued by local authorities. Officials expect monsoon activity to remain active through the week, bringing more consistent rainfall across the state.
